Dahlia Dahlia 'My-nute Blend' (Misc)

Water

Dahlias prefer to be watered with a deep soaking, which means you should allow the water to reach deep into the soil to encourage root growth. Generally, dahlias should be watered two to three times a week, with each watering consisting of approximately 1-2 inches of water, depending on the weather conditions. It's best to water the plants early in the morning to reduce evaporation and to help prevent fungal diseases that can occur with nighttime watering. Avoid wetting the foliage, as this can also lead to disease issues. In hotter climates, you may need to water more frequently, while less watering is required during cooler, rainy periods. Monitor the soil moisture and adjust accordingly; dahlias do not like to sit in waterlogged soil.

Light

Dahlias thrive in locations that receive full sun, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. When choosing a spot for your dahlias, ensure it gets plenty of light throughout the day without too much shade from trees or buildings, as inadequate light can lead to spindly plants and poor flowering. If you live in an extremely hot climate, some afternoon shade can help protect the flowers from the intense heat of the day.

Temperature

Dahlias grow best in temperatures that range from 60°F to 70°F during the day and 50°F to 60°F at night. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F, but they will not thrive if the temperature drops below this range. Likewise, extreme heat above 90°F can stress the plants and affect blooming. Ideal growing conditions involve warm days and cooler nights, as too much heat can potentially harm the plants.

Pruning

Pruning dahlias is crucial for promoting robust plant health and encouraging more blooms. You should deadhead spent flowers regularly, removing the entire flower head and stem down to the next set of leaves. This prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production and encourages more flowers. Additionally, you can pinch out the growing tips when the plant is about a foot tall to stimulate bushier growth and more blooms. The best time to prune for shaping or to control size is in the spring as new growth appears.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Dahlia 'My-Nute Blend' performs best in a well-draining soil enriched with organic matter like compost or aged manure. The ideal pH balance for dahlias is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.5 to 7.0. A desirable soil mix may consist of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration.

Repotting

Dahlias, including 'My-Nute Blend', should typically be repotted every year in the spring. They are not true perennials and their tubers are usually lifted from the soil after the first frost, stored during winter, and replanted after the last frost has passed.

Humidity & Misting

Dahlias like 'My-Nute Blend' prefer a moderate humidity level, as too much humidity can promote fungal diseases. They thrive in outdoor environments where the humidity is naturally regulated. While specific numbers aren't usually stated, average room humidity should be sufficient, avoiding overly damp conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and rotate.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Dahlia 'My-nute Blend' begins as a tuber planted after the last frost in rich, well-drained soil and in a location with full sun exposure. The tuber sprouts and develops into a seedling, which then matures into a bushy plant with strong stems and lush foliage. During the growing season, vibrant and colorful flowers bloom, attracting pollinators to the garden. After flowering, the plant sets seeds that could be collected for propagation or left to potentially self-sow. As temperatures drop in autumn, the Dahlia's leaves and stems wilt, signaling the time to dig up and store the tubers in a cool, frost-free place to overwinter. In spring, Dahlia 'My-nute Blend' is ready to be replanted, repeating its life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Dahlia 'My-nute Blend', like other dahlias, is commonly propagated through division of tubers, which is the most popular method. Ideally, this is done in early spring, just as the new growth begins to emerge from the tubers. Gardeners divide the clumps of tubers so that each section has at least one eye, or bud, from which the new dahlia will grow. After making sure the tuber sections are dry and free from any rot, they can be planted in well-draining soil at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters), spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 46 to 61 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation. Careful handling is essential, as the tubers are quite delicate and can be easily damaged during the division process.